More than 700,000 people fled to neighboring Bangladesh after armed attacks by a militant group against Myanmar security forces sparked brutal military repression starting on August 25, 2017.
They joined thousands of others who had escaped previous waves of violence and discrimination, now living in refugee camps just across the border in the Cox’s Bazar district.
Violence and Funding Cuts
In a statement marking the anniversary, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric noted that the Rohingyas, both inside and outside Myanmar, are experiencing worsening conditions.
“In Rakhine State, the Rohingyas and other civilians are caught in crossfire between the Myanmar military and the Arakan Army and are subjected to forced recruitment, human rights violations, and other abuses,” he stated.
Current violence has forced more Rohingyas to flee, particularly to Bangladesh, which already hosts over a million Myanmar refugees.
A military coup in 2021 ousted Myanmar’s democratic government, inciting armed insurrections across Myanmar following brutal military crackdowns on protests.
Dujarric highlighted reports, relocations, and deportations in the region that raise serious concerns about potential violations of the principle of non-refoulement and restrictions on asylum.
This is happening amid funding cuts that severely impact education, food aid, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and protection services.
Protect All Civilians
The spokesperson said UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his call for the protection of all civilians in line with applicable international law obligations.
The Secretary-General also recalled his visit to Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, where he observed the resilience of the Rohingya communities.
He emphasized the urgent need for strengthened international solidarity and increased support, alongside efforts toward a comprehensive political solution that significantly includes Rohingyas and addresses their displacement and the root causes of the prolonged crisis.
Hopes for the Upcoming Conference
“The Secretary-General hopes the September 30 High-Level Conference on Rohingyas and other minorities in New York, convened by the United Nations General Assembly, will bring renewed international focus on finding lasting solutions,” Dujarric said.
He added that the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Myanmar continues to engage with all stakeholders to end the brutal civil conflict and support a viable Myanmar-led political process.
This should also lead to the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of Rohingyas to Myanmar.
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